Lives of the Artists (2009)

Lives of the Artists is a full-length documentary feature that tells the stories of a group of young men who pursue their passions without compromise and in so doing demonstrate their Artistry. The Lives of the Arists follows Frenchman Xavier De Le Rue, one of the world's top snowboarders, as he searches for the ultimate lines on some of the most dangerous mountains; two British surfers, Tom Lowe and Fergal Smith, as they journey to the 'perfect' heavy wave, in Tahiti and joins Gallows, UK's hardcore punk band as they embark on their US tour. The snowboarder, the surfer and the musician; each is the master of his own realm, but they are all just Artists, men driven to extremes, consumed by the singular desire to leave their mark on the world on the world, to carve their own scars deep into its surface. All have their own story to tell whether it's surviving against all odds a horrifying avalanche, taking on the challenge of the unforgiving ocean or the dispirited and frustrated punk band forever pursuing the fight to keep punk music alive. In snow, surf and in music, the same rules apply, the rules of engagement, the rules of mind, body and soul, the 'Rules of Art', of patience and passion. Suffering goes with the territory, with the terrain and those who want it most must accept the rules; that you only get out what you put in. Lives of the Artists weaves these three stories together demonstrating both the exhilarating contrasts as well as their shared Artistry - with all the vision, ambition, struggle, sacrifice, obsession and triumph they possess. When they are up against it all, can they remain fearless, maintain their adrenaline and hold onto their integrity?